Vibram’s Arctic Grip Validated by “First of its Kind” Canadian Research Study

December 13, 2016

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John L. DiCuollo

Backbone Media, LLC

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CONCORD, Mass

Vibram®, the worldwide leader in high-performance soles and the creator of the Vibram FiveFingers® articulated toe shoe, today announced the results from researchers at iDAPT labs at the Toronto Rehabilitation Institute-University Health Network. Toronto Rehab researchers developed the first test of its kind in the world – the Maximum Achievable Angle (MAA) Testing Method – to validate slip-resistant footwear on icy surfaces using real people in a simulated winter environment.

The MAA testing method was developed by iDAPT with the hope that its research keeps Canadians safer this winter. Vibram’s Arctic Grip technology stood out in the study as one of the most successful new technologies designed to provide better traction on wet ice.

“Vibram Arctic Grip has received incredible feedback from consumers and earned praise from media outlets internationally,” said Allon Cohne, chief marketing officer at Vibram USA. “In addition to our research and development conducted internally, this Canadain study continues to confirm the performance of Vibram Arctic Grip’s traction on wet ice.”

With the assistance of WinterLab, a state-of-the-art research facility located at Toronto Rehab, Canadian researchers tested the slip resistance of 98 winter boots, including safety and casual footwear. Only eight percent of the 98 different types of footwear met the minimum slip resistance standards set out by the MAA test, which requires study participants to wear the winter boots being tested and to walk on an icy surface at a minimum angle of seven degrees. For the first time ever, Canadian consumers will see these winter slip resistance ratings at retail when they purchase footwear this winter. The study’s results, along with more information about testing and ratings, are available at http://www.ratemytreads.com.

“This is another example of how research at Toronto Rehab provides practical help to prevent accidents and disability,” said Dr. Geoff Fernie, research director, Toronto Rehabilitation Institute. “I expect that many serious and life-changing injuries will be prevented this winter by people choosing to buy better non-slip footwear as a result of this study.”

Vibram Arctic Grip is currently featured on six Wolverine Worldwide brands of shoes, including Merrell, Sperry, Hush Puppies, Wolverine, Saucony and Cat Footwear. Those six brands serve as the exclusive Arctic Grip launch partners for this winter 2016-2017, with products now available in retail stores nationwide.

Vibram is recognized worldwide as the leader in high performance soles for outdoor, recreational, work and fashion footwear and is relied on by the world’s greatest climbers and athletes. Vibram soles have gone on to conquer Mt. Everest, K2 and a host of the world’s tallest peaks. Today, the company works with premium brands including Merrrell, Danner, La Sportiva, Lowa, Red Wing, Sperry, Scarpa, The North Face, and many more. Vibram’s Five Finger shoe line is on the cutting-edge of the minimalist footwear trend. Please visit us at www.vibram.com or follow us and our innovative products and services on Facebook, Twitter, Instagram &Pinterest.